Library Liaison Program
Background and Challenges
The following challenges prompted the Library to look for different ways of managing collections.
- Budget issues including an increase in subscriptions costs and a decrease in available funds for books
- inflation.
- Faculty retirements and new faculty.
- University growth and the need to support new programs.
- Need for faculty outreach.
- Growing library materials wish list.
Resources
Goals
- To enhance communication between the library and academic units.
- To develop a systematic and sustainable method of developing library collections by working with faculty members.
- To identify more clearly library resources needed to support the University’s academic programs and research.
The Role of Library Liaisons
- Serve as key contacts for collaborating with faculty in specific departments.
- Learn as much as possible about programs in assigned department including courses, degrees and certificates offered; faculty research; community partnerships and outreach; accrediting organizations; professional associations; comparison of holdings with other universities; etc.
- Create awareness of library materials and services available to faculty members.
- Communicate the Library’s collection development policies to faculty members and involve faculty members in collection development.
- Initiate appropriate requests for purchases of materials.
- Provide feedback on behalf of academic departments to advise the Library of specific research and curricular needs.
- Assist in providing statistical information for new courses and programs, program reviews, and accreditation reviews.
- Participate in analysis of collections to determine strengths and weaknesses.
The Role of Faculty Department Representatives
- Serve as a communication link between the library and your department/program.
- Represent the teaching & research needs of your department/program.
- Advise and consult with us about collections, teaching, and research .
- Keep the library informed of curricular & departmental changes.
- Serve as a knowledgeable resource keeping colleagues informed of library services & resources.
